Irrigation water date set for March

RIPON - South San Joaquin County Irrigation District directors have tentatively set March 17 as the date for the year's first water to be delivered to its members.

The Record

RIPON - South San Joaquin County Irrigation District directors have tentatively set March 17 as the date for the year's first water to be delivered to its members.

The date may be moved up to March 10 if there is no more rain before then or the ground is too dry, according to John Stein, assistant general manager. Stein said 2008 is being considered a normal water year and the district expects to deliver its full allotment of water.

The district encompasses some 72,000 acres with nearly 58,000 acres under irrigation. Almond orchards make up the bulk of the acreage, with nearly 34,000 acres, according to the 2006 crop report, the latest figures available. Other major acreage in the district is planted in corn, oats, grapes and pasture land.

Michael Gilton, a district engineer for the past seven years, has tendered his resignation. His last day will be Friday.